demotion

[ dih-moh-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of reducing to a lower grade, rank, class, or position, or the result of such a reduction:

   The committee is charged with hearing employee appeals and addressing complaints regarding suspension, demotion, layoff, or termination of employment.

   The company’s bad quarter resulted in a further demotion of their overall rating from C+ to C.

Word History and Origins

Origin of demotion¹

de- + (pro)motion

Example Sentences

Like other women who have reported misconduct, she said she has mostly learned to tune out the office gossip and rumors about her demotion.

From Los Angeles Times

Data shows demotions are not common, and her case has sparked controversy within the ranks of the department.

From Los Angeles Times

The punishments included everything from terminations to demotions to suspensions.

From Los Angeles Times

Though the department seeks to discipline dozens of deputies each quarter, a review of disciplinary data posted online show demotions are not common.

From Los Angeles Times

Staff and faculty are subject to written censure, demotion, suspension without pay and dismissal, among other sanctions.

From Los Angeles Times